As I was preparing for game day, a craving hit me like a wave—something savory, crisp, and utterly indulgent. That’s when I decided to whip up these Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors, with gooey mozzarella lovingly wrapped in crispy bacon and seasoned ground chicken, making it the ultimate game-day treat. Not only are these bombs a total crowd-pleaser, but they also offer a wonderful heat that can be adjusted for any palate. Whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself to a little comfort food, this recipe is quick to make and sure to impress. Curious about how to create this deliciousness at home? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are These Bombs So Special?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of savory bacon and spicy buffalo sauce brings an exciting kick to your ordinary snack routine.
Easily Customizable: Not a fan of spice? Simply swap the buffalo sauce for a milder option like honey barbecue to cater to all taste buds.
Perfect for Parties: Whether it’s game day or a casual gathering, these bite-sized delights are sure to be the star of any appetizer spread.
Quick to Prepare: With minimal prep time, they’re ready to fry or bake in under 30 minutes. Perfect for last-minute cravings!
Gooey Surprise: The moment you bite into each bomb, you’ll be greeted with melty mozzarella, making every bite a delight! Pair them with ranch or blue cheese dressing for an extra layer of flavor, reminiscent of French Onion Chicken but in a fun, portable form.
Make these Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs today, and get ready to impress everyone around the table!
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create these delectable snacks!
For the Filling
- Mozzarella Cheese – Provides creamy, stretchy filling; cut into bite-sized cubes.
- Cooked Bacon – Adds savory depth and crunch; crumble and use to wrap the cheese.
- Ground Chicken – Acts as the main protein and binding element; substitute with ground turkey or lean beef if desired.
- Buffalo Sauce – Delivers heat and tang; divide into two portions for mixing and tossing. Substitute with a mild sauce for less heat.
For the Seasoning
- Garlic Powder – Adds aromatic flavor; a must for a savory kick.
- Onion Powder – Enhances depth of flavor; complements the chicken perfectly.
- Paprika – Offers smokiness and hints of color; adds a lovely visual appeal.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Season to taste; adjust according to preference.
For Coating
- Plain Flour – Coats the bombs for frying; helps achieve that perfect crispy texture.
- Eggs – Acts as a binding agent before coating; use beaten eggs for best results.
- Breadcrumbs (Panko or Regular) – Provides crunch; Panko is preferred for extra crispiness.
For Frying
- Vegetable or Canola Oil – For frying; ensure the oil is heated to the right temperature for crispy perfection.
Get ready to whip up these Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs that will surely be the hit of your next gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Begin by cutting the mozzarella cheese into bite-sized cubes, ensuring that each piece is ready to be enveloped. Then, crumble the cooked bacon into small bits. Take a piece of bacon and wrap it around a mozzarella cube tightly, ensuring the cheese is fully covered. Set aside while you prepare the chicken mixture.
Step 2: Mix the Chicken Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and half of the buffalo sauce. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly integrated. This seasoned chicken will not only bind the filling but also enhance the flavor of your Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs.
Step 3: Encase the Cheese
Grab a portion of the seasoned chicken mixture and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place the wrapped mozzarella and bacon in the center of this flattened chicken disc, then carefully mold the chicken around the filling to form a complete ball. Ensure that no cheese is visible and that the bomb is well-sealed to prevent any leakage during cooking.
Step 4: Coat the Bombs
Set up a coating station with three plates: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and another with breadcrumbs. Roll each formed chicken bomb first in the flour, ensuring an even coat, then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the bomb in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they stick well for an extra crispy texture when cooked.
Step 5: Fry or Bake
Heat vegetable or canola oil in a medium to large pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken bombs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them for about 5-6 minutes or until they turn a golden brown and crispy. If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the bombs on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes until they’re golden and crisp, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Step 6: Toss in Buffalo Sauce
Once all your Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs are cooked, remove them from the oil or oven and let them cool slightly. In a large bowl, drizzle the remaining buffalo sauce over the bombs and gently toss to coat them evenly. This final step adds an extra kick of flavor and makes your bombs even more irresistible right before serving.
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
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Seal Well: Ensure the mozzarella is completely enclosed by the chicken mixture to prevent leakage during cooking; a secure seal is key to cheesy goodness.
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Use Panko: Opt for Panko breadcrumbs for added crunch; they provide a superior texture and crispiness compared to regular breadcrumbs.
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Pre-Make for Convenience: Assemble the bombs ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours; this saves time on game day preparation.
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Check Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches 350°F (175°C); cooking at the right temperature ensures a perfect golden crisp.
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Adjust Heat Levels: Not everyone enjoys spice; feel free to adjust the buffalo sauce to your preferred heat level for your Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs.
Storage Tips for Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
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Room Temperature: These bombs are best enjoyed fresh, but if left out, they should be consumed within 2 hours to ensure food safety.
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Fridge: Store cooked bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain their flavor and texture for another delicious snack.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bombs for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
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Reheating: Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy, giving your Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs a delightful texture once again!
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can assemble the bombs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking, which ensures they are ready to fry or bake when you need them. To prepare, simply follow the steps to wrap the mozzarella in bacon, encase it with the chicken mixture, and coat them before placing them in an airtight container. This will help maintain their quality and prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy, just fry or bake as directed, and you’ll have a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
Looking to elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement these cheesy, spicy treats?
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Creamy Ranch Dressing: This cool, tangy dip pairs perfectly to balance the heat of the bombs, enhancing every bite with a refreshing contrast.
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Celery Sticks: Crunchy and crisp, they provide a refreshing palate cleanser, making each bite feel lighter and more vibrant.
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Garlic Bread: Warm and buttery, this classic accompaniment helps soak up any extra buffalo sauce, creating a satisfying harmony of flavors.
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Crispy Potato Wedges: Golden and fluffy on the inside, these hearty sides add a comforting starch that beautifully complements the savory bombs.
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Caesar Salad: The crisp greens with creamy dressing add a touch of freshness, cutting through the rich flavors of the buffalo chicken bombs.
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Sparkling Lemonade: This zesty, effervescent drink offers a bright and bubbly essence, making it an ideal complement to the spicy snack.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, indulge in these classic treats. The sweet, chewy goodness delights the taste buds after the savory explosion of flavors.
Elevate your next gathering with these inspired pairings that will have your guests returning for more!
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Variations
Feel free to get creative and adjust these Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs to suit your tastes!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute plain flour with almond flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a delicious alternative.
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Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to kick the heat up a notch while maintaining that satisfying crunch.
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Mild Option: Use honey barbecue sauce instead of buffalo sauce for a sweeter, milder flavor that everyone can enjoy. These are perfect for the whole family!
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Cheese Lovers: Mix crumbled blue cheese into the filling for an extra layer of taste that pairs beautifully with the buffalo sauce.
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Baked Version: For a healthier twist, opt to bake the bombs at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes instead of frying for a less greasy but equally delicious treat.
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Savory Fillings: Try adding sautéed chopped onions or bell peppers for extra flavor and crunch in each bite.
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Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro into the chicken mixture to brighten the flavor profile.
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Party Platter: Make smaller versions of the bombs, perfect for an appetizer spread that pairs well with ranch or blue cheese dressing, reminiscent of classic Sticky Garlic Chicken but with a buffalo flair.
No matter how you customize them, these Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs are ready to steal the show at your next gathering! Enjoy experimenting!
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting mozzarella cheese?
When selecting mozzarella cheese, choose a cheese that is fresh and has a smooth texture without any dark spots or blemishes. Aim for a cheese that’s soft and pliable, as it will melt beautifully in your bombs. If using pre-packaged mozzarella, check expiration dates to ensure freshness.
How should I store cooked Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs?
Store cooked bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to allow them to cool completely before sealing, as this helps retain their texture. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in the oven or air fryer for about 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to recapture that crispy goodness.
Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooked bombs in a single layer on a baking sheet so they don’t stick together, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the bombs into a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, reheat directly from frozen in the oven or air fryer until they’re heated through and crispy.
What if my chicken mixture doesn’t bind well?
If your chicken mixture feels too crumbly and doesn’t hold together when forming bombs, consider adding a touch more seasoning or breadcrumbs to help with binding. If it’s too wet, you can mix in a little more flour. Make sure to thoroughly mix until the chicken is well combined with all the spices and binding agents.
Are there any dietary considerations for these Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs?
Definitely! For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute regular flour with almond flour. If anyone has allergies, ensure to check the ingredient sources, especially in the buffalo sauce and breadcrumbs, as they can sometimes contain hidden allergens. Always communicate with your guests about any dietary preferences or restrictions.
Can I make these bombs in advance?
Yes, you can assemble Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs ahead of time! Prepare them as usual but refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This not only saves time on the day of your gathering but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for a bit before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs: Irresistibly Gooey Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Filling: Cut mozzarella into bite-sized cubes, crumble the bacon, and wrap bacon around mozzarella.
- Mix the Chicken Mixture: In a bowl, combine ground chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and half of the buffalo sauce.
- Encase the Cheese: Flatten chicken mixture, place wrapped mozzarella in center, mold chicken around to form a ball.
- Coat the Bombs: Roll each bomb in flour, dip into beaten eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Fry or Bake: Heat oil to 350°F and fry bombs for 5-6 minutes until golden or bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes.
- Toss in Buffalo Sauce: Drizzle remaining buffalo sauce over cooked bombs and gently toss to coat.
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